The much-anticipated Final 8 playoffs of the Nigeria Premier Basketball League tipped off on Thursday, November 14, at the Basketball Stadium in Old Port Harcourt Township.
Eight teams are vying not only for the league title but also for an automatic berth in next year’s Basketball Africa League.
Savannah Conference champions Gboko City Chiefs opened the tournament with an impressive 82-50 victory over Police Batons.
Gboko’s George Williams led the charge, scoring 24 points, along with 3 assists, 4 rebounds, and a perfect 6-for-6 on free throws, emerging as the game’s highest scorer and driving the Makurdi-based team to a solid win.
The second game featured Nile University taking on Kwara Falcons. The match stayed close and competitive through the end of the third quarter, with Nile holding a narrow 45-40 lead. However, Nile dominated the final quarter, finishing the game with a 62-45 win. Favour Aboje and Umar Garba led the team with 31 and 20 points, respectively, securing their victory.
In a thrilling third match, Kano Pillars started strong with a 19-15 lead over Hoops and Read in the first quarter. However, Hoops and Read showed resilience, staging a comeback to clinch the win at 73-66.
The day concluded with defending champions and hosts, Rivers Hoopers, facing off against Gombe Bulls. Rivers Hoopers maintained their unbeaten streak with a dominant 87-56 victory in an electrifying game. Kelvin Amayo shined with 18 points and 5 assists, while Ogbodeje Patrick added 16 points and 3 assists to secure the win.
The tournament continues on Friday, November 15, with Rivers Hoopers squaring off against Kwara Falcons, and Gombe Bulls looking to notch their first win against Nile University. In Group A, Gboko City Chiefs aim to keep up their momentum against Kano Pillars, while Police Baton will take on Hoops and Read.
